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The Encyclopedia of Horology

Wristwatch · Datejust wristwatch

1990 Rolex Datejust Ref. 16234

Partially verified

This 1990 Rolex Datejust, reference 16234, is a self-winding wristwatch featuring a 36mm stainless steel case and a fluted 18K white gold bezel. It is powered by the Rolex Calibre 3135 movement, which incorporates quick-set date functionality. The watch is fitted with a silver dial displaying tritium hour plots and hands, and it is paired with a Rolex 62510H Jubilee bracelet. The construction utilizes a sapphire crystal, distinguishing it from earlier models. The case maintains its original proportions, showing light signs of previous polishing, while the bracelet is composed of 22 links. This timepiece represents a transition in the Datejust series, combining traditional tritium-lumed dial elements with modern technical specifications.

Front view of the 1990 Rolex Datejust showing the silver dial, fluted bezel, and Jubilee bracelet.
Front view of the 1990 Rolex Datejust showing the silver dial, fluted bezel, and Jubilee bracelet. — Craft & Tailored. Rights pending — permission not yet requested. Original source

Catalogue identity

Source
craftandtailored.com
Category
Wristwatch · Datejust wristwatch
Maker / attribution
Rolex
Reference
16234
Catalogue / lot identifier
RLXDJ16234-8
Source-reported date
1990
Source-reported place
Not established
Source-reported serial
E4XXXXX

Source-reported attribution and specifications are not independent authentication. A listing does not establish present ownership, current display, availability or permission to reproduce.

Object description

Case and Dial

The watch is housed in a 36mm stainless steel case complemented by a fluted 18K white gold bezel. The auction description reports that the case retains strong dimensions with thick, symmetrical lugs, and displays only minimal signs of use, noting light evidence of past polishing. The silver dial is presented in vintage condition with no visible damage, featuring a subtle, uniform patina.

The hour markers and hands are original, equipped with tritium lume plots that exhibit an ivory coloration. Under UV light inspection, both the dial and the handset show no degradation. A sapphire crystal sits above the dial, shielding the watch face and the date display aperture, which is magnified by a standard Rolex cyclops lens attached to the exterior of the crystal.

Evidence for this section
  • “The excellent case retains strong dimensions, with thick and symmetrical lugs present.”
  • “The 18K white gold fluted bezel is very crisp, with only gentle signs of use present.”
  • “The tritium lume plots feature a charming ivory color and exhibit no degradation under UV light inspection.”
  • “The original hands match the dial perfectly and show no degradation under UV light inspection.”

Movement and Functionality

This reference 16234 is powered by the Rolex Calibre 3135 movement. This automatic mechanical movement is equipped with a quick-set date function, allowing for independent adjustment of the calendar display. The watch is presented as a transitional reference, which the auction description indicates merges vintage-style luminous material on the dial with the updated, modern technical architecture of the 3135 calibre and the scratch-resistant sapphire crystal.

The watch is reported to keep time accurately following a recent service performed by the vendor.

Evidence for this section
  • “the reliable Rolex Cal. 3135 movement with quick-set date functionality.”
  • “incorporating modern upgrades, including a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal”
  • “The watch was recently serviced and is keeping time perfectly, backed by a 1-year warranty on accurate timekeeping.”

Bracelet and Accessories

The watch is mounted on its original Rolex 62510H Jubilee bracelet, which features 555B end pieces. The bracelet is comprised of 22 links, exhibiting minimal stretch, and is sized to accommodate a wrist up to 8 inches in circumference. The component parts are original to the watch as described in the stock listing.

The set is complete with its original presentation materials, including both the inner and outer boxes.

Evidence for this section
  • “The original Rolex 62510H bracelet with 555B end pieces retains 22 links that show minimal stretch”
  • “The watch comes with its original inner and outer boxes, the Rolex guarantee certificate, and red chronometer seal hangtag.”

Open research questions

  • What is the complete six-digit serial number behind the E4XXXXX redaction to pinpoint the specific month of 1990 production?
  • Have any individual components of the movement been replaced during the reported recent service?

Source evidence

Recorded claims and source quotations for 1990 Rolex Datejust Ref. 16234
FieldSource-reported valueSource quotation
MakerRolex“Brand Rolex”
Reference Number16234“Model 16234”
MovementRolex Calibre 3135“reliable Rolex Cal. 3135 movement”
Bracelet ReferenceRolex 62510H“Rolex 62510H Jubilee Bracelet”
Serial Number PrefixE4“Serial E4XXXXX”
Service HistoryRecently serviced“The watch was recently serviced”

Visible details

  • Silver dial features applied silver indices with tritium lume plots
  • Fluted bezel exhibits characteristic serrated design
  • Date aperture includes a cyclops magnifier on the crystal
  • Bracelet secured with folding clasp and 555B end pieces

Research qualifications

  • Full serial number is partially redacted as E4XXXXX
  • Extent of previous polishing is based on a visual assessment reported by the seller

Photograph identity and source facts were screened before import; rights clearance remains pending.

Consulted source

ساعت مچی Rolex Datejust رفرنس 16234 با صفحه نقره‌ای سال ۱۹۹۰

Reviewed 2026-11-02 · Record fea01e8b10

Terms in this record

Glossary explanations for terms named in this object’s record.

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